[May 16, 2013 — The Daily Barometer] — Oregon State University found out Wednesday night which chef’s cuisine reigned supreme.

Chefs from the OSU campus competed for the title of Iron Chef:M cNary Champion in a setting similar to that of the hit TV show.

University Housing and Dining Services held the event in collaboration with the Human Services Resource Center as a fundraiser for the OSU Emergency Food Pantry, which supplies food to students and community members in need.

McNary Dining Hall, located on the east side of campus, hosted the event. Students and faculty members stopped and stared as each contestant used skill and finesse to create a masterpiece dish.

Three chefs from across campus competed in the event with only the help of a single companion. Each team received 50 minutes to cook their meal, and then 10 minutes to plate their creations.

Participating chefs had a box of secret ingredients commonly found in the OSU Emergency Food Pantry at their disposal. The chefs then used the ingredients to create a meal worthy of the title Iron Chef champion.

Despite tough competition from the other chefs, Jason Phillips was able to use the skills he gained during his childhood to come out on top.

Phillips grew up in Portland, and was inspired to cook by his grandmother.

“She was passionate about food and spent hours in the kitchen,” Phillips said. “She started preparing dinner at 7 a.m.”
Phillips is currently a student in the OSU nutrition program, and spends his free time volunteering at the Jackson Street Youth Shelter teaching basic cooking skills to children.

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Those who would like to donate to the food pantry can do so by stopping by the Snell International Forum on Wednesday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Additionally, donations are also accepted online through HSRC’s website.